Sketch illustration of motte and bailey castle, showing bridge over moat leading to the motte with stone tower on top

Clifford’s Tower: History and Stories

York’s iconic ancient monument is home to one thousand years of history. The raised earthwork was once the site of a timber keep built by William the Conqueror. It burnt down during the worst event in the site’s history: the massacre of the Jews in 1190.

Clifford’s Tower has looked over the city of York from 1245 until the present day. Once part of York Castle, the tower played a role in turbulent national events such as the Dissolution of the Monasteries and the English Civil War. Today the site is still giving up its secrets.

_{Image © Getty Images/Universal History Archive/UIG}

Clifford’s Tower through time

History of Clifford's Tower

Read about the rise and fall of Clifford’s Tower from Norman times to today.
The Massacre of the Jews at Clifford's Tower

An account of the tragic events of 1190 and the rise of anti-Semitism in medieval England.
Why is Clifford's Tower Important?

Clifford’s Tower is the largest surviving structure of York Castle. Find out why it still matters and what it tells us about the city of York.
Listen to the Speaking with Shadows podcast

Hear more about the circumstances that led to the massacre of the Jews, and how York’s modern Jewish community remember the tragedy.
English Civil War

Clifford’s Tower was a Royalist stronghold during the English Civil War. Learn about how the devastating conflict transformed the British Army.
Buy the Guidebook

Explore the site of Clifford’s Tower and read about its history in the official guidebook.

More resources

Research on Clifford's Tower

Find out what academics have uncovered about Clifford’s Tower and the role it has played in history.
Description of Clifford's Tower

Discover what the surviving architectural features of Clifford’s Tower tell us about its history and function.
Sources for Clifford's Tower

A list of the main written, visual and material sources for further study of Clifford’s Tower.
Download a plan of Clifford's Tower

Download plans and cross-sections showing how Clifford’s Tower has developed over time.